T. Berry Brazelton

Date of Birth: May 10, 1918

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: March 13, 2018

Biography

Thomas Berry Brazelton, M.D., was a renowned American pediatrician, author, and professor who made significant contributions to child development and pediatrics. Born in Waco, Texas, Brazelton grew up with a deep interest in understanding the emotional and physical growth of children. He received his undergraduate degree from Princeton University and his medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. Dr. Brazelton is best known for his pioneering work in infant development and his creation of the Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale (NBAS), also known as the Brazelton Scale. This scale is widely used to assess the physical and neurological responses of newborns, as well as their emotional well-being and individual differences. His career spanned several decades, during which he wrote over 200 scholarly papers and more than 30 books on pediatric care and child development. His most famous works include “Infants and Mothers” and “Touchpoints,” which have guided countless parents and professionals in understanding and fostering child development. Dr. Brazelton also hosted the television program “What Every Baby Knows,” which brought his expertise into the homes of millions of viewers. Throughout his life, he advocated for the importance of parental involvement in early childhood development and was a strong proponent of policies that support families.

5 Interesting Facts about T. Berry Brazelton

1. Dr. Brazelton served as a pediatrician in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

2. He founded the Child Development Unit at Boston Children’s Hospital, which became a leading center for training and research.

3. Brazelton’s NBAS has been translated into over 20 languages and is used globally.

4. He was awarded the Presidential Citizens Medal in 2012 for his contributions to child development and pediatrics.

5. Dr. Brazelton was also a strong advocate for paid parental leave, testifying before Congress to push for family-friendly policies.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from T. Berry Brazelton

1. “Parents don’t make mistakes because they don’t care, but because they care so deeply.”

2. “Every child is different, and it’s those differences that make each child special.”

3. “The newborn is amazingly competent – a miracle in many ways – and yet the newborn, like all of us, is vulnerable.”

4. “Touchpoints are the universal spurts of development that all children go through.”

5. “The family is the first school of human virtues; it provides the foundation for lifelong competence and character.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Dr. T. Berry Brazelton’s net worth was estimated to be approximately $5 million, primarily from his prolific writing, television appearances, and academic contributions.

Children

Dr. T. Berry Brazelton had four children: Catherine, Thomas, Pauline, and Christina. He often spoke about his family and the joy of watching his children grow, which further fueled his passion for understanding and improving child development.